Pain With A Pen Can Mean Surgery
Carpel tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when pressure is exerted on a major nerve in the hand. When the median nerve is compressed, pain, weakness, and tingling can be felt in the hand and wrist. A variety of factors, including genetics, pregnancy, certain health conditions, and repetitive hand use, can cause CTS. While many cases of carpel tunnel can be treated with conservative methods, some signs can indicate the need for surgery.
1. Pain with repetitive motion
Jotting down a quick note doesn’t take much effort, but more extended periods of writing, whether for school or work, can trigger CTS. The repetitive nature of writing can aggravate the tendons in the wrist and cause swelling that puts pressure on the nerves. Writers can take breaks and focus on proper hand mechanics to reduce symptoms. For some people, bracing or splinting, over-the-counter (OTC) medication, and steroid injections can help. However, if conservative methods do not improve the condition, CTS surgery may be required.
2. Weak grip
Another common complaint among people suffering from CTS is a weak grip. Reduced grip strength can impact everyday activities such as opening a jar, brushing teeth, and driving a car. For writers, this symptom can affect the ability to hold a pen or pencil for long periods.
Rest and physical therapy (PT) can improve grip strength. If the problem continues despite conservative efforts to address the concern, carpel tunnel release surgery is an option.
3. Tingling in the hands
Tingling is another bothersome symptom of CTS that Primarily affects the thumb and middle, index, and ring finger. Also described as numbness, loss of feeling, burning, or pins and needles, the sensation can negatively impact quality of life, especially for writers. Since writing involves every finger to function optimally, a tingling sensation can be a serious impediment. Surgery can correct the issue if non-invasive measures fail to provide relief.
Preparing for surgery
If conservative treatment options such as PT and bracing fail to bring relief, a doctor will schedule a surgery called carpel tunnel release. During the procedure, the surgeon will cut through the ligament nerve that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel. The surgery is traditionally performed as an open release, requiring a larger incision in the wrist. Using minimally invasive surgery (MIS) techniques, the procedure can now be completed by making a much smaller incision and using a camera and tiny tools to correct the problem. Carpel tunnel release is an outpatient surgery, meaning the patient can go home to recover the same day.
Writing away the pain
For any individual participating in a hobby or profession that requires continual use of the hands, like writing, a diagnosis of CTS can be a big problem. Pain, weakness, and a tingling sensation can all occur because of the pressure on the median nerve. Carpel tunnel release surgery can correct the problem, allowing individuals to return to pain-free writing. Pain is reduced with a quick cut of the nerve, and writers can return to putting words on paper.
